Philippians 2:12-13

Passage

Because of this, beloved ones, as you have always paid attention through obedience, continue to do so.  With fear and trembling work according to your salvation not only when I am with you but even more now that I am absent.  For God is the one who works in you for that which pleases – both to desire and to work.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

Having just finished a look at Christ, Paul again reiterates to the Philippians the importance of obedience.  They have been great at paying attention and applying the lessons in their life up to now.  Paul doesn’t want them to change that aspect.  He encourages them to work according to their salvation.  That means that they are to live with a perspective of the eternal.  Their choices, conversations, priorities, and relationships should all reflect their relationship with the Father.

Are you surprised that “working according to our salvation” begins with obedience?  Why do you think Paul spends so much time talking about obedience to a people who have always been good about paying attention to him?  Is obedience easy for you or a continual struggle against your will?

Second Thought:

Along these same lines, Paul specifically uses the words “with fear and trembling.”  Obviously, Paul isn’t talking about the kind of fear and trembling that paralyzes someone and keeps them from acting.  Instead, he is talking about the kind of fear and trembling that keeps us humble.  He’s talking about the kind of fear and trembling that reminds us that it is only through the grace and presence of God that we can even do His work at all.  It is a fear and trembling of humbleness for which Paul is aiming.

Do the words “fear and trembling” categorize your relationship with God?  Why or why not?

Third Thought:

This second point leads us naturally into our third point.  It is God who works.  It is God – through His Holy Spirit – that even creates the desire within us to work.  Everything we do that is good and beneficial to His Kingdom ultimately comes from God.  He is the source.  This is why it is always fitting to give God the glory.  Anything good that happens in our life or through us is a result of His hand at work in our life.

Do you believe this?  Do you live this way?  What in life makes it difficult for us to remember to stop and consider God’s hand at work in our life?

Passage for Tomorrow: Philippians 2:14-18